CAPIZ – The provincial government, through the Provincial Health Office (PHO), has warned the public anew about the dangers of rabies — a deadly, long-standing disease that affects the central nervous system of both humans and animals.
The matter was discussed during the recent Provincial Health Board Meeting held on June 17.
According to the PHO, while anti-rabies vaccines are available in district hospitals across the province, the supply remains limited. As such, residents are strongly urged to take preventive measures and remain vigilant.
“Rabies is transmitted through the saliva of infected animals such as dogs, cats, and bats via open wounds or bites,” the PHO said. “If not treated promptly, rabies can be fatal to both animals and humans.”
Early symptoms of rabies include fever, headache, and fatigue. If left untreated, these may progress to more severe symptoms such as delusions, hydrophobia (fear of water), aerophobia (fear of drafts or fresh air), confusion, coma, and ultimately, death.
To reduce the risk of infection, the PHO strongly advises the public to have pets vaccinated against rabies, avoid contact with stray animals, and immediately seek medical attention at an Animal Bite Treatment Center (ABTC) if bitten.
Several Department of Health (DOH)-certified ABTCs are operational in Capiz. These include government-run centers in Roxas City, Dumarao, Maayon, Sigma, and Dumalag, as well as private clinics such as RV ABC, Carlos Rey ABC, SEM ABC, and Family Vaccines, all located in Roxas City.
The provincial government emphasized its ongoing surveillance and educational efforts to combat rabies, hoping that with proper information and public cooperation, cases can be significantly reduced.
“With vigilance and community participation, we can prevent rabies and ensure that Capisnons live free from fear,” the PHO said./PN
